Malawian musicians have failed to make it on the list of nominees in the 7th edition of Africa Music Magazine Awards which will take place on 15th November in Dallas, USA.
The phenomenon has 27 slots which among others include, artists of the year, song of the year and video of the year. This year’s edition is themed ‘Destination Africa’ and features heavyweights of African music with proven track records in the art.
Nigerian singer Burna Boy is the most nominated in this year’s event having appeared on 8 slots. Other nominated stars are South African Master KG, Ugandan Eddy Kenzo, and Tanzanian Diamond Platinumz among others. Nigeria dominates in the nominations followed by Tanzania, South Africa Ghana and Kenya.
Due to Covid-19 pandemic, the function will be conducted virtually. The absence of Malawian musicians is argued to expose weaknesses in the local music industry.
Commentators say Malawian musicians fail to reach their potentials due to lack of resources. They believe if local musicians were properly supported we would be singing a different tune today.
The last time a Malawian was nominated in the awards was 2017. South African based Zani Challe was nominated in the best new comer category, in which she lost.